Transplantation of Schwann cells differentiated from adipose-derived stem cells modifies reactive gliosis after contusion brain injury in rats

Abstract

This study investigated whether transplantation of Schwann cells differentiated from adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC-SCs) of rats could promote functional improvement after contusion brain injury, with a focus on the effect on reactive gliosis. ADSCs were isolated and expanded from groin adipose tissue of Sprague-Dawley rats and then differentiated into Schwann cells. ADSCSCs were transplanted into the contused rat brain. Immunofluorescence and Western blotting were used to analyse reactive gliosis, and locomotor function of the rats was assessed. Hemiparalysed rats transplanted with ADSC-SCs showed significant locomotor function recovery compared with rats transplanted with undifferentiated ADSCs or control rats injected with medium alone. Transplanted ADSC-SCs significantly reduced glial scar formation and neurocan protein levels compared with transplanted undifferentiated ADSCs. In conclusion, transplantation of ADSC-SCs can effectively promote locomotor functional recovery and reduce reactive gliosis after contusion brain injury in rats.